Benin City
18th December 2024
The recent suspension of 18 local government chairmen and vice chairmen in Edo State has sparked intense debate, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the all the Edo state People holding differing views on the matter.
From the PDP's perspective, the suspension is seen as a blatant violation of the Nigerian Constitution and the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy. The party argues that the governor's request for the chairmen to submit financial records is an overreach of power, and that the suspension is a politically motivated move to silence opposition.
On the other hand, the Edo people and the Edo State House of Assembly argue that the suspension is necessary to ensure accountability in the local governments. They point out that the chairmen's refusal to submit financial records is an act of insubordination and gross misconduct.
From a legal and philosophical perspective, it is clear that there is a difference between suspension and dissolution.
The State House of Assembly cannot dissolve the local governments, but it can suspend the chairmen and vice chairmen pending investigation. If found wanting, they can be charged to court for a criminal offense.
The Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy is also clear: it does not grant absolute autonomy to local governments, but rather emphasizes the need for cooperation between the state and local governments.
Ultimately, the suspension of the local government chairmen and vice chairmen in Edo State is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of the legal and philosophical implications.
As the matter unfolds, it is essential to remember that two things are involved: either the chairmen are finally found guilty, or they confess their sins and inequities to the court.
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Opinion